PROGRESS

5 years ago

Saudi King Revokes Flogging of Driver

AP Photo

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia delivers a speech to the Saudi Shura Council, or advisory assembly, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 25, 2011.

Saudi King Abdullah has ruled against flogging a woman who was allegedly sentenced to 10 lashes after being caught driving a car—a major violation in the kingdom. It’s another sign that the country is gradually working to improve women’s rights. On Sunday, Abdullah announced two historic changes for women. First, he said they will be allowed to serve on his advisory council; second, they will be allowed to nominate candidates and run in the next round of municipal elections. It’s not yet known when the elections will take place.